To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for an update on Project Stratum; and (ii) what actions are being taken to ensure rural dwellers are able to connect to the new system where connection by overhead lines is not possible.

(i) Of the more than 81,000 eligible premises which are scheduled for intervention under Project Stratum, over 71,000 have been addressed. 25,000 eligible premises have ordered a broadband service made available through Project Stratum.

(ii) To maximise the number of premises that can connect to the Hypertfast NI full fibre gigabit capable network within the Project Stratum budget, the roll out of the Hyperfast NI network is designed to use existing Openreach infrastructure wherever possible. Where Fibrus need to extend the network or fill in gaps of existing Openreach infrastructure to enable a connection they will install Fibrus poles and other infrastructure in accordance with the original network design and so as to ensure they adhere to contractual obligations to deliver the network on time as well as to maximise the public purse investment in Project Stratum.

Where householders or businesses wish to deviate from the original network design there may be an additional cost e.g. if they would prefer an underground solution versus an overhead connection using poles. Where connection to the Hyperfast NI network via poles is physically not possible other methods including underground duct connections will be investigated. No installation will take place without the agreement of the household or business and relevant signed wayleaves.